William Thomas Davis was born in Lynchburg, Virginia, on March 9th 1937, the son of W.T. Davis and Lillian Louise Ballowe. A lifelong and proud Virginian, he passed on May 2nd 2021. Bill was descended from several founding families of Virginia, including Colonel George Reade, who was the first Acting Governor of Virginia and member of the House of Burgesses; Augustine Warner, who served as the Speaker of Virginia’s House of Burgesses; Nicolas Martiau, known as the Father of Yorktown; and Colonel Thomas Ballowe, who led the 2nd Virginia Militia during the War of 1812.
The Davis family “business” was tobacco farming and construction; however, “Billy” left to attend the University of Virginia, where he graduated with a degree in Physics, residing on The Lawn. Bill then entered the Navy, served aboard the aircraft carrier Independence, and supported NATO missions with the British Navy aboard the aircraft carrier Centaur. While serving in Singapore, he met his British bride, Wendy Rolls, who taught primary school students on the Royal Air Force Base. They married in 1964, returning to the United States where they settled into a happy life as 50-year-plus members of St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, which afforded them many friends and social engagements. Bill served as an usher while his wife Wendy sang in the choir. Bill finished his career as part of the Intelligence Community. After retirement, Bill and Wendy traveled extensively, where his favorite location was New Mexico.
Bill was a proud supporter of Public Television. Toward the end of his life, he continued his zest for learning through audiobooks and asking “Alexa” challenging political and historical questions. His dogs, Duke and Freddy, who both predeceased him, also gave him great joy.
Bill leaves behind his wife, Wendy, and daughter Sarah Jane Brandon (Gene), and grandsons Jack and Peter Brandon. Also surviving Bill is his younger sister Shelby Miller and brothers Larry and Wendell Davis; nephews Chris Miller (Christy), Mike Miller, Adrian Miller (Lizze), Davy Davis (Tiffany), Jacob Davis; and niece Lilly Miller.
A celebration of life will be held Friday, May 14th, at Miller Funeral Home in Woodbridge at 10:30, which requires limited attendance due to Covid. At 12:30 pm, an open Military Service and Funeral will be in Quantico National Cemetery. Refreshments will follow outside St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in Woodbridge. Social distancing and masks are required.
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Looking for a fun and educational experience for kids? Check out Semillitas: Puerto Rican Bomba Kids. This event brings Puerto Rican bomba songs, dance, and music to Stafford every Sunday starting February 2, 2025, and running through June 1, 2025. Kids will enjoy learning rhythm, dance moves, and songs in an interactive environment.
The classes are designed for children up to 10, with a unique May 4 program featuring visiting artists from Puerto Rico!
Dates: Feb 2nd, Mar 2nd, Apr 6th, Jun 1st
Time: 1:30 pm – 2:15 pm
Location: Virtuous Dance Center, 31 Utah Place #101, Stafford.
Cost: $10 for the first child, $7 for additional children per class, $32 for all four classes for the first child, and $24 for each additional child.
It’s free to submit your events to Potomac Local! Simply visit this link: https://form.jotform.com/221630757468058. Just fill out the details, and we’ll feature your event!
Authorities have released additional details regarding the homicide of 61-year-old Charles Childress and 59-year-old Kimberly Newcomb, whose bodies were discovered on January 25, 2025, at a residence in the 10800 block of Heatherwood Drive.
The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office initially responded to the home after a concerned friend discovered a deceased female and called 911. Upon arrival, deputies found both victims dead at the scene. Investigators have now confirmed that both victims died from multiple gunshot wounds.
Following the autopsy, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death as gunshot wounds. Detectives with the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) continue their investigation and work around the clock to process evidence and interview potential witnesses. While the relationship between the victims remains under investigation, it has been confirmed that they were living together at the residence.
Crews from Stafford Utilities are repairing a water main break on Route 1 southbound near Centreport Parkway. The far-right and center lanes of the highway will be closed to traffic as repairs are made, though the far left lane remains open. Drivers are advised to proceed with caution through the area.
Stafford County spokeswoman Shannon Eubanks said one customer remains without water due to the break. The cause of the water main rupture is still under investigation.
There is no estimated completion time for the repairs, as crews must first identify the problem before calculating how long it will take to fix it. Howell emphasized that safety remains a priority and urged drivers to avoid the closed lanes where possible.
More as we have it.
The Virginia Railway Express (VRE) Operations Board meeting on January 17, 2025, saw several significant discussions aimed at enhancing service and infrastructure across the transit system. Among the most talked-about topics were the introduction of Saturday service, a crucial funding agreement for the Manassas Line, solutions for parking challenges at stations, and major infrastructure projects, including the redevelopment of Seminary Yard and the Long Bridge upgrades. Each of these initiatives is designed to improve the commuter experience and accommodate a growing ridership base.
One of the highlights of the meeting was the ongoing development of Saturday service, a long-awaited addition that has been approved and included in VRE’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget. Set to feature three round-trip trains on the Fredericksburg and Manassas lines, this service is expected to cater to weekend commuters, offering a much-needed alternative to the crowded roads in the region.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
